Nick Klein isn't your typical UFC fighter. In a recent interview with RG, the down-to-earth contender discussed his journey from everyday life to the Contender Series spotlight, his impressive debut, and his goals for the future.
Despite his recent victory on Dana White's Contender Series, Klein maintains a grounded perspective.
"No, not really," he says when asked if things have changed since his big win. "Just back to my day job, going to practice. Just the same things that got me there." He emphasizes the importance of hard work, explaining that he just "takes off work and focuses on the fight" when it's time for fight camp.
Klein's path to the UFC wasn't paved with expectations of a glamorous lifestyle. He credits his success to pure determination.
"There was no feeling out process whatsoever," he says of his Contender Series fight. "It was just like, you go in and get that done." He explains he channeled all the time, effort, and sacrifice into that moment, resulting in a record-breaking performance.
The now-viral "Jon Jones" moment wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision. Klein reveals, "I planned on saying it. But only had I done something kind of impressive."
He elaborates, wanting to connect with the audience and make a memorable statement. Looking towards the future, Klein remains focused.
"There's a number of names at the bottom, you know, bottom of the roster, which is where I'm gonna start," he says.
His goals are clear: stay healthy, win impressively, and ultimately dedicate himself full-time to fighting.
While Klein possesses a dominant wrestling background, his fighting style prioritizes efficiency over unnecessary brawls. "I'm just not interested in getting into wars like that," he states. "I got to keep a healthy head on my shoulders. You know, I got kids and stuff at home."
Nick Klein's story is one of perseverance and calculated aggression. He isn't a loudmouth self-promoter, but a fighter focused on proving himself through his skills. With his dedication and intelligent fighting style, Klein is sure to leave his mark on the UFC in the years to come.
Klein's journey to the UFC is a testament to his relentless dedication and unwavering belief in his abilities. Hailing from a humble background, he spent countless hours honing his craft at his local gym, often commuting long distances to train alongside top-tier athletes.
His explosive performance on Dana White's Contender Series not only showcased his exceptional skills but also captured the attention of fans worldwide. His dominant victory, punctuated by a lightning-fast submission, solidified his status as a rising star in the UFC.
Klein's approach to fighting is grounded in a deep understanding of his strengths and weaknesses. He possesses a well-rounded skill set, including grappling, striking, and submission grappling. However, he remains humble, acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead in the UFC.
"I'm just a regular guy who loves to compete," he says. "I'm excited to see where this journey takes me."
With his sights set on climbing the UFC ladder, Klein is determined to make a lasting impact. He envisions himself as a top contender in the welterweight division, consistently delivering exciting fights and showcasing his elite skills.
As he continues to train and evolve, fans eagerly await his next appearance in the Octagon. Nick Klein is more than just a fighter; he's a symbol of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness.
For fans eager to see him back in action, Klein has a simple message: "Just give me a follow on Instagram, man, at Combat Klein. And, yeah, keep an ear out, keep an eye open, and hopefully in January or February or March, you know, I'll be in there."
Garrett Kerman
